‘Amrit’ has a considerable importance in the Sikhi. The common usages are: Amrit Bani (including Amrit Keertan), Amrit-vela, and the Amrit-initiation ceremony. The latter two are linked to Amrit primarily because of the Gur-Bani component attached to these.

In addition the term ‘Amrit’ has been used extensively in the Gurbani as an adjective to bring divinity into various aspects in our daily-life. Hereunder are given some Gurbani Tuks to elaborate further the significance of ‘Amrit’:-

According to Gurbani Waheguru (Naam) stands for Amrit – Ambrosial Nectar.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਹੈ ਮਿਲਿ ਪੀਵਹੁ ਭਾਈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 318).
The treasure of the Naam, the Name of the Lord, is Ambrosial Nectar; meet together and drink it in, O Siblings of Destiny.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਰਮੋਲਕੁ ਹੀਰਾ ਗੁਰਿ ਦੀਨੋ ਮੰਤਾਨੀ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 671).
The Ambrosial Naam, the Name of the Lord, is a priceless jewel. The Guru has given me this advice.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਰਮੋਲਕੁ ਹਰਿ ਜਸੁ ਤਿਨਿ ਪਾਇਓ ਜਿਸੁ ਕਿਰਪੈਨ ॥ Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 674).
The Ambrosial Naam, the Name of the Lord, and the Praises of the Lord are priceless; he alone obtains them, whom the Lord blesses with His Mercy.

How and where to find Amrit? The Amrit is obtained from the Guru with the grace of Waheguru in Gur-Sabd.

ਸੁਰਿ ਨਰ ਮੁਨਿ ਜਨ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਖੋਜਦੇ ਸੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਗੁਰ ਤੇ ਪਾਇਆ ॥(Raag Raamkalee M. 3, GGS. 918).
The angelic beings and the silent sages search for the Ambrosial Nectar; this Amrit is obtained from the Guru.

ਪਾਇਆ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਗੁਰਿ ਕ੍ਰਿਪਾ ਕੀਨੀ ਸਚਾ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਾਇਆ ॥
This Amrit is obtained, when the Guru grants His Grace; He enshrines the True Lord within the mind.

ਜੀਅ ਜੰਤ ਸਭਿ ਤੁਧੁ ਉਪਾਏ ਇਕਿ ਵੇਖਿ ਪਰਸਣਿ ਆਇਆ ॥
All living beings and creatures were created by You; only some come to see the Guru, and seek His blessing.

ਲਬੁ ਲੋਭੁ ਅਹੰਕਾਰੁ ਚੂਕਾ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਭਲਾ ਭਾਇਆ ॥
Their greed, avarice and egotism are dispelled, and the True Guru seems sweet.

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਆਪਿ ਤੁਠਾ ਤਿਨਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਗੁਰ ਤੇ ਪਾਇਆ ॥੧੩॥
Says Nanak, those with whom the Lord is pleased, obtain the Amrit, through the Guru. ||13||

ਗੁਰ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਭਿੰਨੀ ਦੇਹੁਰੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਬੁਰਕੇ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਜੇ ॥ (Raag Aasaa M. 4, GGS. 449).
The Guru’s body is drenched with Ambrosial Nectar; He sprinkles it upon me, O Lord King.

ਜਿਨਾ ਗੁਰਬਾਣੀ ਮਨਿ ਭਾਈਆ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤਿ ਛਕਿ ਛਕੇ ॥
Those whose minds are pleased with the Word of the Guru’s Bani, drink in the Ambrosial Nectar again and again.

ਹਰਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਭਗਤਿ ਭੰਡਾਰ ਹੈ ਗੁਰ ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਪਾਸੇ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਜੇ ॥(Raag Aasaa M. 4, GGS. 449).
The treasure of Ambrosial Nectar the Lord’s devotional service is found through the Guru, the True Guru, O Lord King.

ਗੁਰੁ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਸਚਾ ਸਾਹੁ ਹੈ ਸਿਖ ਦੇਇ ਹਰਿ ਰਾਸੇ ॥
The Guru, the True Guru, is the True Banker, who gives to His Sikh the capital of the Lord.

ਥਾਲ ਵਿਚਿ ਤਿੰਨਿ ਵਸਤੂ ਪਈਓ ਸਤੁ ਸੰਤੋਖੁ ਵੀਚਾਰੋ ॥ (Mundaavanee M. 5, GGS. 1429).
Upon this Plate, three things have been placed: Truth, Contentment and Contemplation.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਠਾਕੁਰ ਕਾ ਪਇਓ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਸਭਸੁ ਅਧਾਰੋ ॥
The Ambrosial Nectar of the Naam, the Name of our Lord and Master, has been placed upon it as well; it is the Support of all.

ਜੇ ਕੋ ਖਾਵੈ ਜੇ ਕੋ ਭੁੰਚੈ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਹੋਇ ਉਧਾਰੋ ॥
One who eats it and enjoys it shall be saved.

ਏਹ ਵਸਤੁ ਤਜੀ ਨਹ ਜਾਈ ਨਿਤ ਨਿਤ ਰਖੁ ਉਰਿ ਧਾਰੋ ॥
This thing can never be forsaken; keep this always and forever in your mind.

1. Amrit Vela

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਵੇਲਾ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਉ ਵਡਿਆਈ ਵੀਚਾਰੁ ॥ (Guru Nanak, Japji, GGS. 2).
In the Amrit Vaylaa, the ambrosial hours before dawn, chant the True Name, and contemplate His Glorious Greatness.

2. Amrit Prab-naam

ਸੁਖਮਨੀ ਸੁਖ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਨਾਮੁ ॥ ਭਗਤ ਜਨਾ ਕੈ ਮਨਿ ਬਿਸ੍ਰਾਮ ॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 262).
Sukhmani: Peace of Mind, the Nectar of the Name of God. The minds of the devotees abide in a joyful peace. ||Pause||

ਨਉ ਨਿਧਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ॥ ਦੇਹੀ ਮਹਿ ਇਸ ਕਾ ਬਿਸ੍ਰਾਮੁ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 293).
The nine treasures are in the Ambrosial Name of God. Within the human body is its place of rest.

3. Amrit Bani

ਬਾਣੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬਾਣੀ ਵਿਚਿ ਬਾਣੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਾਰੇ ॥ (Raag Nat, M. 4, GGS. 982).
The Word, the Bani is Guru, and Guru is the Bani. Within the Bani, the Ambrosial Nectar is contained.

ਗੁਰ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਤੇ ਸੇ ਜਨ ਜਾਗੇ ਜਿਨਾ ਹਰਿ ਮਨਿ ਵਸਿਆ ਬੋਲਹਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਬਾਣੀ ॥ (Raag Raamkalee M. 3, 920).
Those humble beings remain awake and aware, within whose minds, by Guru’s Grace, the Lord abides; they chant the Ambrosial Word of the Guru’s Bani.

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਸੋ ਤਤੁ ਪਾਏ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਅਨਦਿਨੁ ਹਰਿ ਲਿਵ ਲਾਗੈ ਜਾਗਤ ਰੈਣਿ ਵਿਹਾਣੀ ॥੨੭॥
Says Nanak, they alone obtain the essence of reality, who night and day remain lovingly absorbed in the Lord; they pass the night of their life awake and aware. ||27||

4. Amrit listening and singing

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਸੁਣਹੁ ਪਵਿਤ੍ਰ ਹੋਵਹੁ ਸਾਚੈ ਸੁਨਣੈ ਨੋ ਪਠਾਏ ॥੩੭॥ (Raag Raamkalee M. 3, GGS. 922.).
Says Nanak, listen to the Ambrosial Naam and become holy; you were created only to hear the Truth. ||37||

ਸਾਧਸੰਗਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਇਨ ॥(Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 271).
In the Company of the Holy, one sings the Ambrosial Glories.

5. Amrit Ras

ਹਰਿ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਇ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਰਸੁ ਚਾਖੈ ॥ (Raag Gauhree M. 5, GGS. 283).
Singing the Glorious Praises of the Lord, we taste the ambrosial essence.

6. Amrit Drishti

ਬ੍ਰਹਮ ਗਿਆਨੀ ਕੀ ਦ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਬਰਸੀ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 273).
Nectar rains down from the glance of the God-conscious being.

ਮਤਿ ਪੂਰੀ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਜਾ ਕੀ ਦ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ॥ ਦਰਸਨੁ ਪੇਖਤ ਉਧਰਤ ਸ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GSS. 293).
His wisdom is perfect, and His Glance is Ambrosial. Beholding His Vision, the universe is saved.

7. Amrit-drinking

ਪੀਵਹੁ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਸਦਾ ਰਹਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਰੰਗਿ ਜਪਿਹੁ ਸਾਰਿਗਪਾਣੀ ॥ ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਸਦਾ ਗਾਵਹੁ ਏਹ ਸਚੀ ਬਾਣੀ ॥੨੩॥
Drink in this Ambrosial Nectar, and remain in the Lord’s Love forever; meditate on the Lord, the Sustainer of the world. Says Nanak, sing this True Bani forever. ||23||

ਇਹੁ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਜਨੁ ਕੋਇ ॥ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਪੀਵੈ ਅਮਰੁ ਸੋ ਹੋਇ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 287).
Only a few obtain this ambrosial essence of the Lord’s Name. Drinking in this Nectar, one becomes immortal.

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਧਾਨੁ ਹੈ ਮਿਲਿ ਪੀਵਹੁ ਭਾਈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 318).
The treasure of the Naam, the Name of the Lord, is Ambrosial Nectar; meet together and drink it in, O Siblings of Destiny.

8. State of an Amrit-dhari

ਹਰਿ ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਭਿੰਨੇ ਲੋਇਣਾ ਮਨੁ ਪ੍ਰੇਮਿ ਰਤੰਨਾ ਰਾਮ ਰਾਜੇ ॥ (Raag Aasaa M. 4, GGS. 448).
My eyes are wet with the Nectar of the Lord, and my mind is imbued with His Love, O Lord King.

9. Amrit Initiation

Nit-nem of Gurbani, supporting of 5K’s and adherence to Rahit Maryada are its mandatory components.

Gurmat recommends Amrit Naam of Waheguru as the life-line (of a Gur-sikh):

ਅੰਮ੍ਰਿਤ ਨਾਮੁ ਪਰਮੇਸਰੁ ਤੇਰਾ ਜੋ ਸਿਮਰੈ ਸੋ ਜੀਵੈ ॥ Raag Sorath M. 5, GGS. 616).

Your Name, O Transcendent Lord, is Ambrosial Nectar; whoever meditates on it, lives.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

According to Guru Arjan Dev Ji, the Guru of the Sikhs is:-

ਅਗਮ ਰੂਪੁ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਕਾ ਅਨਿਕ ਨਾਮ ਅਪਾਰ ॥ (Raag Mali Gaura M. 5, GGS. 986-12).
The beauty of the Lord of the Universe is profound and unfathomable; the Names of the Infinite Lord are innumerable.

The numerous names also appear in the Guru Granth Sahib: Ik Onkar, satnam, kadir kareem, raam, raheem, parmatma, bhagwan, prabhu, rab, allah, khudha, god, yahowa, beethal, madhusudan, madho, akalpurakh, waheguru, khasam, pita, mittar, pranpati, sajjan, bandhap, sakha, bharata, rachanhara, sirjanhara, palanhara, prithpalak, gharanhara, bhanjanhara, gosain, gopal, dinanath, nath, deen-dyal,damodar, karta, harta, bharta, padampat, karunaidh, aad-purak, karta-purak, niranjan, nirankar, pooran purak. datta, bidata,, avtoot, sat-purak, akal-purakh, abinasi-purak, parbhram, parmesar, sat-karta, bhram, dhitman, dharadhar, dharridhar, dhanurpan, gharagket,antarzami, jagdish, banwari, banwali, madhaw,mukandh, murari, bhisambar, amiteshvar, sarabeshvar, jagtesvar, achut, anatarjami, damodar, swami, rikikesh, govardan, murli manohar, jagan-nath, jagjiwan datta, bhu-bhajjan, govind, hari, har etc etc (by courtesy of Prof. Kirpal Singh Badungar, Gurmat Parkash, March 2012 page 9).

Guru Nanak Sahib qualifies Waheguru as a fearless, formless and Truthful who is the Creator of the entire Universe. Guru Ji goes on to narrate that His Grace awakens him and enlightens him to draw closer to Waheguru:-

ਨਿਰਭਉ ਨਿਰੰਕਾਰੁ ਸਚੁ ਨਾਮੁ ॥ ਜਾ ਕਾ ਕੀਆ ਸਗਲ ਜਹਾਨੁ ॥ (Raag Asa M.1, GGS. 465-9).
The Lord is fearless and formless; His Name is True.The entire universe is His Creation.

ਸੇਵਕ ਸੇਵਹਿ ਕਰਮਿ ਚੜਾਉ ॥ ਭਿੰਨੀ ਰੈਣਿ ਜਿਨ੍ਹ੍ਹਾ ਮਨਿ ਚਾਉ ॥
Those servants, whose destiny is awakened, serve the Lord. The night of their lives is cool with dew; their minds are filled with love for the Lord.

ਸਿਖੀ ਸਿਖਿਆ ਗੁਰ ਵੀਚਾਰਿ ॥ ਨਦਰੀ ਕਰਮਿ ਲਘਾਏ ਪਾਰਿ ॥
Contemplating the Guru, I have been taught these teachings; Granting His Grace, He carries His servants across.

Guru Nanak Sahib on his own tells who is his Guru though Guru Nanak used ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ but not Wah Guru:

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਵਾਟ ਦਿਖਾਵੈ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਸਬਦੁ ਸੁਣਾਵੈ ॥ ( Guru Nanak, GGS. 226)..
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who shows us the Way. Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who teaches the Word of the Sabd.

ਤਿਸ ਕਉ ਵਾਹੁ ਵਾਹੁ ਜਿ ਮੇਲਿ ਮਿਲਾਵੈ ॥੬॥
Waaho! Waaho! – Hail, hail, to the one who unites me in the Lord’s Union. ||6||

Here Guru Nanak is praising that person, who would show the right way, explain the Sabd and help him know the Almighty God.

Then Guru Nanak Sahib is describing his Guru as follows:

ਗੁਰੁ ਪਉੜੀ ਬੇੜੀ ਗੁਰੂ ਗੁਰੁ ਤੁਲਹਾ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਉ ॥ (Guru Nanak Sahib, GGS. 17).
The Guru is the Ladder, the Guru is the Boat, and the Guru is the Raft to take me to the Lord’s Name.

Here Guru Nanak Sahib says that the one who is a ladder, boat and raft is my Guru to guide me to know the God/Almighty.

Guru Nanak’s Guru is a ladder, boat and raft and is known by numerous names as given above and many more when you include the names given by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in Jaap Sahib. If Guru did not believe in these names, he would have not quoted these in his Bani and likewise the other authors of Bani in the Guru Granth Sahib.

How can one say all these names in one go? Not possible. However, looking at all these and many more names one starts wondering that who is such a wonderful entity who serves as a spiritual ladder, boat and raft for Guru Nanak Sahib? – the answer automatically comes ‘What a Wonderous Guru’ – WAHEGURU, which includes all His names and attributes.

The first Guru of the Sikh is UNDOUBTEDLY the One who is and was the GURU of Guru Nanak, and that is WAHEGURU. All other Gurus and Bhagats and Mahpurakhs testify in the same in the entire Gurbani of the Guru Granth Sahib.

However, the Gurbani points out that the following TRUTH:-

ਹਰਿ ਜਨ ਹਰਿ ਅੰਤਰੁ ਨਹੀ ਨਾਨਕ ਸਾਚੀ ਮਾਨੁ ॥੨੯॥ (Salok M. 9, GGS. 1428-1).
There is no difference between the Lord and the humble servant of the Lord; O Nanak, know this as true. ||29|

Guru Nanak Sahib is Har Jan – ik mik /sito-sita with WAHEGURU.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

The Gurbani proclaims that Waheguru Ji (Naam) is a all powerful TOOL (Kalaa) and is all pervading and can be reached through the Gurbani. One needs to have full faith in the presence Waheguru in all beings (“toon ghat ghat anter sarab nirantar ji, har eko purak samana”); and by gradually putting this truth in practice one is able experience the Waheguru in oneself.

ਜਾਤਿ ਮਹਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਜੋਤਿ ਮਹਿ ਜਾਤਾ ਅਕਲ ਕਲਾ ਭਰਪੂਰਿ ਰਹਿਆ ॥ (Raag Aasaa M. 1, GGS. 469.).
Your Light is in Your creatures, and Your creatures are in Your Light; Your almighty power is pervading everywhere.

The prescribed way is to explore the truth that lies in the teachings of Guru/Gurbani to obtain the blissful state of “Naam”, which acts as a powerful tool to help control the five vices and helps in concentrating consciously in connecting with Waheguru (God realization). However, human-beings get this Kalla solely at the discretion of Waheguru Ji i. e. through His Kirpa/Grace/Nadr (ਧੁਰਿ ਕਰਮਿ ਪਾਇਆ) .

ਤੂੰ ਸਚਾ ਸਾਹਿਬੁ ਸਿਫਤਿ ਸੁਆਲ੍ਹ੍ਹਿਉ ਜਿਨਿ ਕੀਤੀ ਸੋ ਪਾਰਿ ਪਇਆ ॥ (Ramkalee M. 3, GGS. 917).
You are the True Lord and Master; Your Praise is so beautiful. One who sings it, is carried across.

ਵਾਜੇ ਪੰਚ ਸਬਦ ਤਿਤੁ ਘਰਿ ਸਭਾਗੈ ॥ ਘਰਿ ਸਭਾਗੈ ਸਬਦ ਵਾਜੇ ਕਲਾ ਜਿਤੁ ਘਰਿ ਧਾਰੀਆ ॥ (Raag Ramkalee M. 3.
The Panch Shabad, the five primal sounds, vibrate in that blessed house. In that blessed house, the Shabad vibrates; He infuses His almighty power into it.

ਪੰਚ ਦੂਤ ਤੁਧੁ ਵਸਿ ਕੀਤੇ ਕਾਲੁ ਕੰਟਕੁ ਮਾਰਿਆ ॥ ਧੁਰਿ ਕਰਮਿ ਪਾਇਆ ਤੁਧੁ ਜਿਨ ਕਉ ਸਿ ਨਾਮਿ ਹਰਿ ਕੈ ਲਾਗੇ ॥
Through You, we subdue the five demons of desire, and slay Death, the torturer. Those who have such preordained destiny are attached to the Lord’s Name.

ਕਹੈ ਨਾਨਕੁ ਤਹ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਆ ਤਿਤੁ ਘਰਿ ਅਨਹਦ ਵਾਜੇ ॥੫॥
Says Nanak, they are at peace, and the unstruck sound current vibrates within their homes. ||5||

Some of the attributes of the “Kalaa” find references in the following Tuks:

1. ਅਤਿ ਸੂਰਾ ਜੇ ਕੋਊ ਕਹਾਵੈ ॥ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੀ ਕਲਾ ਬਿਨਾ ਕਹ ਧਾਵੈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS, 282).
One may call himself a great hero, but without Waheguru’s (God’s) Power, what can anyone do?

2. ਨੀਕੀ ਕੀਰੀ ਮਹਿ ਕਲ ਰਾਖੈ ॥ ਭਸਮ ਕਰੈ ਲਸਕਰ ਕੋਟਿ ਲਾਖੈ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS.285).
He infuses His Power into the tiny ant; it can then reduce the armies of millions to ashes

3. ਰਚਿ ਰਚਨਾ ਅਪਨੀ ਕਲ ਧਾਰੀ ॥ ਅਨਿਕ ਬਾਰ ਨਾਨਕ ਬਲਿਹਾਰੀ ॥੮॥੧੮II (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 288).
Having created the creation, He infuses His own power into it. So many times, Nanak is a sacrifice to Him. ||8||18||

4. ਜਹ ਸਰਬ ਕਲਾ ਆਪਹਿ ਪਰਬੀਨ ॥ ਤਹ ਬੇਦ ਕਤੇਬ ਕਹਾ ਕੋਊ ਚੀਨ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 291).
When all power and wisdom was latent within Him, then where were the Vedas and the scriptures, and who was there to read them?

5. ਸਰਬ ਕਲਾ ਕਰਿ ਖੇਲੈ ਖੇਲ ॥ ਮੋਲਿ ਨ ਪਾਈਐ ਗੁਣਹ ਅਮੋਲ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 294).
With absolute power, He plays His play. His value cannot be estimated; His virtues are invaluable.

6. ਅਨਿਕ ਕਲਾ ਲਖੀ ਨਹ ਜਾਇ ॥ ਜਿਸੁ ਭਾਵੈ ਤਿਸੁ ਲਏ ਮਿਲਾਇ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 294).
His powers are so numerous, they cannot be known. As it pleases Him, He merges us into Himself again.

7. ਕਲੀ ਕਾਲ ਮਹਿ ਇਕ ਕਲ ਰਾਖੀ ॥ ਬਿਨੁ ਗੁਰ ਪੂਰੇ ਕਿਨੈ ਨ ਭਾਖੀ ॥ (Raag Maaro M. 1, GGS. 1024).
In the Iron Age, the Dark Age of Kali Yuga, only one power remains. Without the Perfect Guru, no one has even described it.

8. ਡੰਡਉਤਿ ਬੰਦਨ ਅਨਿਕ ਬਾਰ ਸਰਬ ਕਲਾ ਸਮਰਥ ॥ ਡੋਲਨ ਤੇ ਰਾਖਹੁ ਪ੍ਰਭੂ ਨਾਨਕ ਦੇ ਕਰਿ ਹਥ ॥੧॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, 256).
I bow down, and fall to the ground in humble adoration, countless times, to the All-powerful Lord, who possesses all powers. Please protect me, and save me from wandering, God. Reach out and give Nanak Your Hand. ||1||

The Guru/Gurbani give assurance that Waheguru is Truth and so is His Kalaa truthful.

ਗੁਰੁ ਪੂਰਾ ਪੂਰੀ ਤਾ ਕੀ ਕਲਾ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਕਾ ਸਬਦੁ ਸਦਾ ਸਦ ਅਟਲਾ ॥ (Raag Parbhaatee M. 5, GGs. 1339).
The Guru is Perfect, and Perfect is His Power. The Word of the Guru’s Shabad is unchanging, forever and ever.

ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਬਾਣੀ ਜਿਸੁ ਮਨਿ ਵਸੈ ॥ ਦੂਖੁ ਦਰਦੁ ਸਭੁ ਤਾ ਕਾ ਨਸੈ ॥੧॥
All pains and afflictions run away from those, whose minds are filled with the Word of the Guru’s Bani. ||1||

With Waheguru on one’s side everything is possible with His Kalaa.

ਸਰਬ ਕਲਾ ਭਰਪੂਰ ਪ੍ਰਭ ਬਿਰਥਾ ਜਾਨਨਹਾਰ ॥ ਜਾ ਕੈ ਸਿਮਰਨਿ ਉਧਰੀਐ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਸੁ ਬਲਿਹਾਰ ॥੧॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 282; Sukhmani Sahib Sloak 15.).
God is totally imbued with all powers; He is the Knower of our troubles. Meditating in remembrance on Him, we are saved; Nanak is a sacrifice to Him. ||1||

The prescribed path to attain “Kalaa” is in Nit-nem of Gurbani/Nam Japna/Simran (“Prab ka simran sab te oocha”), which attract His Kirpa/Grace/Nadr. A daily ARDAS with humility and gratitude facilities the process further.

“Gurbani eis jag mehi chaanan”

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

Kewal, Virle and Vadbhagi are three very conspicuous words (expressions) used throughout the Guru Granth Sahib and their usage invariably describes an intense association with Guru/Gurbani/Nam Japna/Saadh Sanga /Naam (Har-Ras).

KEWAL (ਕੇਵਲ)  – (Exclusive/Exclusively alone)

ਅਵਰਿ ਕਾਜ ਤੇਰੈ ਕਿਤੈ ਨ ਕਾਮ ॥ ਮਿਲੁ ਸਾਧਸੰਗਤਿ ਭਜੁ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮ ॥੧॥ (Raag Aasaa M. 5, GGS. 12.).
Nothing else will work. Join the Saadh Sangat, the Company of the Holy; vibrate and meditate on the Jewel of the Naam. ||1||

ਸਗਲ ਮਤਾਂਤ ਕੇਵਲ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮ ॥ ਗੋਬਿੰਦ ਭਗਤ ਕੈ ਮਨਿ ਬਿਸ੍ਰਾਮ ॥ (Raag Gauhree M. 5, GGS. 296).
The essence of all religion is the Lord’s Name alone. It abides in the minds of the devotees of God.

ਜਿਹ ਪ੍ਰਸਾਦਿ ਤੇਰੋ ਰਹਤਾ ਧਰਮੁ ॥ ਮਨ ਸਦਾ ਧਿਆਇ ਕੇਵਲ ਪਾਰਬ੍ਰਹਮੁ ॥ (Raag Gauhree M. 5, GGS. 270).
By His Grace, you remain in the Dharma; O mind, meditate continually on the Supreme Lord God.

ਨਾਨਕ ਕੈ ਘਰਿ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮੁ ॥੪॥੪॥ (Raag Bhaira-o M. 5, GGS. 1136).
Nanak’s home is filled with the Naam, the Name of the Lord. ||4||4||

ਕਹਤ ਕਬੀਰ ਸੁਨਹੁ ਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਛੋਡਹੁ ਮਨ ਕੇ ਭਰਮਾ ॥ ਕੇਵਲ ਨਾਮੁ ਜਪਹੁ ਰੇ ਪ੍ਰਾਨੀ ਪਰਹੁ ਏਕ ਕੀ ਸਰਨਾਂ ॥੩॥੨॥
Raag Dhansree Saint Kabir, GGS. 692).
Says Kabeer, listen, O mortal: Renounce the doubts of your mind. Chant only the One Naam, the Name of the Lord, O mortal, and seek the Sanctuary of the One Lord. ||3||2||

VIRLE (ਵਿਰਲੇ) – ( (Rare persons/Gurmukhs)

ਅੰਤਰਿ ਗੁਰੁ ਆਰਾਧਣਾ ਜਿਹਵਾ ਜਪਿ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਉ ॥ ਨੇਤ੍ਰੀ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਪੇਖਣਾ ਸ੍ਰਵਣੀ ਸੁਨਣਾ ਗੁਰ ਨਾਉ ॥(Raag Goojree M. 5, GGS. 517).
Deep within yourself, worship the Guru in adoration, and with your tongue, chant the Guru’s Name. Let your eyes behold the True Guru, and let your ears hear the Guru’s Name.

ਸਤਿਗੁਰ ਸੇਤੀ ਰਤਿਆ ਦਰਗਹ ਪਾਈਐ ਠਾਉ ॥
Attuned to the True Guru, you shall receive a place of honor in the Court of the Lord.

ਕਹੁ ਨਾਨਕ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਕਰੇ ਜਿਸ ਨੋ ਏਹ ਵਥੁ ਦੇਇ ॥ ਜਗ ਮਹਿ ਉਤਮ ਕਾਢੀਅਹਿ ਵਿਰਲੇ ਕੇਈ ਕੇਇ ॥੧॥
Says Nanak, this treasure is bestowed on those who are blessed with His Mercy. In the midst of the world, they are known as the most pious – they are rare indeed. ||1||

ਪ੍ਰਭ ਕੀ ਦ੍ਰਿਸਟਿ ਮਹਾ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਇ ॥ ਹਰਿ ਰਸੁ ਪਾਵੈ ਬਿਰਲਾ ਕੋਇ ॥ (Raag Gauhree M. 5, GGS. 289-13).
By God’s Gracious Glance, there is great peace. Rare are those who obtain the juice of the Lord’s essence.

ਖਸਮੁ ਛੋਡਿ ਦੂਜੈ ਲਗੇ ਡੁਬੇ ਸੇ ਵਣਜਾਰਿਆ ॥ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੂ ਹੈ ਬੋਹਿਥਾ ਵਿਰਲੈ ਕਿਨੈ ਵੀਚਾਰਿਆ ॥ (Raag Aasaa M. 1, GGS. 470-11).
Those dealers who abandon their Lord and Master and attach themselves to another, are drowned. The True Guru is the boat, but few are those who realize this.

ਗਿਆਨੁ ਧਿਆਨੁ ਗੁਰ ਸਬਦੁ ਹੈ ਮੀਠਾ ॥ ਗੁਰ ਕਿਰਪਾ ਤੇ ਕਿਨੈ ਵਿਰਲੈ ਚਖਿ ਡੀਠਾ ॥੨॥ (Raag Gaurhee Guaarayree, M. 3, GGS. 162).
Spiritual wisdom and meditation come to those unto whom the Word of the Guru’s Shabad is sweet. By Guru’s Grace, a few have tasted, and seen it. ||2||

ਬਾਣੀ ਬਿਰਲਉ ਬੀਚਾਰਸੀ ਜੇ ਕੋ ਗੁਰਮੁਖਿ ਹੋਇ ॥(Raag Raamkalee Dakhnee, M. 1, GGS. 935-12).
How rare are those who contemplate the Word of the Guru’s Bani; they become Gurmukh.

VADBHAGI (ਬਡਭਾਗੀ) – (Who are the lucky ones?)

Who is Vadbhagi? The Gurbani directs as:-

A brief of a Vadbhagi would comprise of 1. Born as human 2. Joining of Sat Sangat 3. Meeting a Guru 4. Obtaining the state of Naam (Nirvana), and 5. Remaining imbued for ever in praising the name of Waheguru.

ਵਡੈ ਭਾਗਿ ਇਹੁ ਸਰੀਰੁ ਪਾਇਆ ॥ (Raag Maaroo, M. 3, GGS. 1065-5).
By great good fortune, I obtained this body;

ਵਡੈ ਭਾਗਿ ਸਤਸੰਗਤਿ ਪਾਈ ਹਰਿ ਹਰਿ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਹਿਆ ਭਰਪੂਰਿ ॥ (Raag Sarang, M. 4, GGS. 1198-10).
By great good fortune, I have found the Sat Sangat; the Name of the Lord, Har, Har, is all-pervading everywhere.

ਵਡੈ ਭਾਗਿ ਭੇਟੇ ਗੁਰਦੇਵਾ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 683-19).
By great good fortune, one meets the Divine Guru.

ਵਡੈ ਭਾਗਿ ਸਤਿਗੁਰੁ ਮਿਲੈ ਪਾਈਐ ਪਦੁ ਨਿਰਬਾਣੀ ॥੧॥ (Raag Aasaa M. 1, GGS. 421).
By great good fortune, one meets the True Guru, and the supreme status of Nirvaanaa is obtained. ||1||

ਬਡਭਾਗੀ ਤਿਹ ਜਨ ਕਉ ਜਾਨਹੁ ਜੋ ਹਰਿ ਕੇ ਗੁਨ ਗਾਵੈ ॥ (Raag Raamkalee, M. 9).
Know that one who sings the Glorious Praises of the Lord is very fortunate.

While everyone can be a Sikh by turning to the Gurbani but only a Kewal-Virle and Vadbhagi can be a Khalsa as proclaimed by Guru Gobind Singh JI:-

ਤੀਰਥ ਦਾਨ ਦਇਆ ਤਪ ਸੰਜਮ ਏਕ ਬਿਨਾ ਨਹ ਏਕ ਪਛਾਨੈ ॥ ਪੂਰਨ ਜੋਤ ਜਗੈ ਘਟ ਮੈ ਤਬ ਖਾਲਸ ਤਾਹਿ ਨਖਾਲਸ ਜਾਨੈ ॥੧॥ (DS 1350).

He is the true Khalsa (Sikh), who remembers the ever-awakened Light throughout night and day and does not bring anyone else in the mind; he practices his vow with whole heated affection and does not believe in even by oversight, the graves, Hindu monument

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

Since Guru Nanak was born with Divine wisdom, he was certainly a special person and not one of us or a common man. To emulate Guru Nanak is thus far more difficult than Guru Angad Ji. Who was Guru Nanak? Some call him a messenger of Waheguru; others regard him as if Waheguru spoke through him; and yet others claim that he himself was Waheguru.

It is perhaps easy for us to relate to Bhai Lehna Ji who later became Guru Angad. Bhai Lehna Ji was a simple plain person, a commoner like most of us. His mind was wandering and searching for a true guru for his peace of mind(as is the situation with most of us). He was an ardent devotee of goddess Durga (we are always under the spell of Maya and thus are in Dubida). He led parties of pilgrims to Durga’s temple at Jwalamukhi every year. They went singing and dancing all the way (we are also busy dancing and singing in our respective environments). Lehna Ji finally found peace on meeting with Guru Nanak Ji and by following his Hukam.

While Guru Nanak says in Gurbani time and again that he was ordained by the Waheguru, Guru Angad claims to owe his enlightenment to his Guru – Guru Nanak Ji. He believes in complete surrender to his Guru – he adds that it is obedience to the Guru that earns for all the rewards of spiritual uplift.

In Guru Angad Ji’ Bani there is a strong and guiding message about his Guru, he says:-

ਗੁਰੁ ਕੁੰਜੀ ਪਾਹੂ ਨਿਵਲੁ ਮਨੁ ਕੋਠਾ ਤਨੁ ਛਤਿ ॥ (Raag Sarang M. 2, GGS. 1237-11).
The key of the Guru opens the lock of attachment, in the house of the mind, under the roof of the body.

ਨਾਨਕ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਮਨ ਕਾ ਤਾਕੁ ਨ ਉਘੜੈ ਅਵਰ ਨ ਕੁੰਜੀ ਹਥਿ ॥੧॥
O Nanak, without the Guru, the door of the mind cannot be opened. No one else holds the key in hand. ||1||

Guru Angad Ji highlights the importance of Guru in the life of a Sikh. He developed a strong devotion and humility towards Guru Nanak that he used the nom de plume Nanak in his Bani, the practice which was followed by rest of the Gurus succeeding him.

ਜੇ ਸਉ ਚੰਦਾ ਉਗਵਹਿ ਸੂਰਜ ਚੜਹਿ ਹਜਾਰ ॥ ਏਤੇ ਚਾਨਣ ਹੋਦਿਆਂ ਗੁਰ ਬਿਨੁ ਘੋਰ ਅੰਧਾਰ ॥੨॥ (Raag Asa M.2, GGS. 463-1).
If a hundred moons were to rise, and a thousand suns appeared, Even with such light, there would still be pitch darkness without the Guru. ||2||

Bhai Lehna ji was exposed to the Bani of Guru Nanak Ji only. On the other hand we have been handed down a Guru in Guru Granth Sahib , which holds a bunch of keys for our spiritual, economic and social uplift (keys provided by six Gurus and numerous Bhagats and Mahapuraks recognised by the Gurus). However, we are still wandering to find our Guru. How sad is the situation? We have a divine treasure left by the Sikh Gurus and yet we are not able to find our Guru in Guru Granth Sahib Ji. Obviously, we lack the degree of humility and devotion of Bhai Lehna Ji.

To my mind the best expression of Guru Nanak’s message (or Guru Nanak’s Philosophy) is given in the following panktis of Guru Angad Dev Ji. The succeeding Gurus expounded on the spiritual understanding of Guru Angad Dev Ji in further developing on the thinking of Guru Nanak Sahib:-

ਆਪੇ ਸਾਜੇ ਕਰੇ ਆਪਿ ਜਾਈ ਭਿ ਰਖੈ ਆਪਿ ॥ ਤਿਸੁ ਵਿਚਿ ਜੰਤ ਉਪਾਇ ਕੈ ਦੇਖੈ ਥਾਪਿ ਉਥਾਪਿ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 2, GGS. 475-7).
He Himself creates and fashions the world, and He Himself keeps it in order.
Having created the beings within it, He oversees their birth and death.

ਕਿਸ ਨੋ ਕਹੀਐ ਨਾਨਕਾ ਸਭੁ ਕਿਛੁ ਆਪੇ ਆਪਿ ॥੨॥
Unto whom should we speak, O Nanak, when He Himself is all-in-all? ||2||

It is clear that Guru Nanak Sahib intended us to look towards his Guru who is All-in-All (Akalpurakh/Waheguru/Naam).  Thus Sikhi belong to Waheguru and our Gurus spoke only what was ordained out of Gurmat.

Guru Angad Ji’s contribution is many folds in shaping the life of a Sikh. We do need his guidance in refreshing the importance of a Guru:-

1. As a true Guru he highlighted the importance of a Guru in his own life and love for Gurbani, Kirtan and Naam Japna. Important lessons for us to learn.
2. To carry out Guru’s Hukam was his top priority – ‘Hukam maneye howai parvan, ta khasme ka mehl paiye-see.’ He teaches us humility and devotion to follow in the footsteps of our Guru (i.e. the Guru Granth Sahib).
3. He was a spiritual leader who was also practical minded. He took care of the physical and mental health of his flock. We also need to keep fit by leading a disciplined life.
4. He encouraged the Sikh to take interest in sports (origin of athletic aptitude in Sikh Community).
5. He opened pathshalas where children were imparted education in their own mother tongue. It is high time to learn Gurmukhi to enjoy the treasure in Gurbani.
6. He strengthened the institution of free Langer with the unconditional support from his wife, Mata Kheevi Ji – to propagate the spirit of Vand Chakna.
7. He simplified and codified the Gurmukhi Script and popularized its use amongst the Sikhs. The development of Gurmukhi Script led to the foundation stone of our current Guru – the Guru Granth Sahib. We should always be grateful to Guru Angad Ji for this precious literary gift.

We need to follow in the footsteps of Guru Angad Ji by accepting the Guru Granth Sahib without any Dubidha as our Guru. The Guru Granth Sahib is a Guide and the Guru. All the other Gurus have equally emphasised the importance of Guru.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

“Dekh ke undith keeta” – is a virtuous act though a very difficult one. Those who lost their loved ones, it is not easy to forget and brushed aside. However, we do remember those who are imbued with the spirit of forgiveness in our daily supplecation (Ardas). I think it is time to give practical shape to our longing for “Dekh ke undith Keeta”.

According to Gurbani, “Mare rakhe eiko aap, manukh ke kich nahe haath” (Waheguru alone can give and take life and no one else).

ਮਾਰੈ ਰਾਖੈ ਏਕੋ ਆਪਿ ॥ ਮਾਨੁਖ ਕੈ ਕਿਛੁ ਨਾਹੀ ਹਾਥਿ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 281-4).
The One Lord Himself destroys and also preserves. Nothing at all is in the hands of mortal beings.

ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਹੁਕਮੁ ਬੂਝਿ ਸੁਖੁ ਹੋਇ ॥ ਤਿਸ ਕਾ ਨਾਮੁ ਰਖੁ ਕੰਠਿ ਪਰੋਇ ॥
Understanding His Order, there is peace. So take His Name, and stay in solace.

As Gursikh of Gurbani we should be guided by the message of Sabd Guru. All that happened was as per the Divine Hukam (Waheguru ordained).

I would suggest that just like Guru Nanak Sahib himself went to Sajjan Thug, Haridwar and Kabba etc to show them the right paths; Guru Arjan Dev Ji and Guru Teg Bahadur ji sacrificed their lives for upholding unity and spiritual values, it is time to say a collective Ardas to Waheguru for the forgiveness of all those involved in killing of fellow human-beings. This will be in keeping with the highest Ideal and Spirit of Sikhi.

An Ardas could be suitably worded something like the following and published in media in Indian Dailies from SGPC, Amritsar and DSGMC, Delhi:

“May Waheguru forgive all those who somehow lost their sanity and became instrumental in killing of innocent people in 1984. Please give a sense of direction to those who became part of such criminal act and grant peace to them and their dear and near ones who have been suffering since and help restore sense of unity among fellow human-beings.”

I do hope such an initiative will bring solace to both the Communities in keeping with the message of true Sikhi, which stands for FORGIVENESS.

“Forgiveness removes unhealthy emotions that would otherwise cause harm & creates emotions with a wholesome effect”.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com

‘Jivan Mukt’ is a state of obtaining Divine Sohjee (blissful wisdom):-

ਜੀਵਨ ਮੁਕਤਿ ਜਿਸੁ ਰਿਦੈ ਭਗਵੰਤੁ ॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, GGS. 294-19).
He is Jivan Mukta – liberated while yet alive; in whose heart Waheguru.

According to Gurbani, there are two Gurmat keys that help us to know Waheguru to become ‘Jivan Mukt’:-

1. 1st Gurmat Key is ‘ਜੇ ਇਕ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਿਖ ਸੁਣੀ’ (Listening to Guru’s (Gurbani) teachings

This helps us to know the divine gifts that we are blessed with:-

ਮਤਿ ਵਿਚਿ ਰਤਨ ਜਵਾਹਰ ਮਾਣਿਕ ਜੇ ਇਕ ਗੁਰ ਕੀ ਸਿਖ ਸੁਣੀ ॥ Jap Ji, Guru Nanak, GGS. 2-12).
Within the mind are gems, jewels and rubies, if you listen to the Guru’s Teachings, even once.

2 .2nd Gurmat Key is Naam.

Guru Nanak Sahib draws our attention to Naam by giving his personal appreciation of Naam, which is his life support and of the entire World.

ਤੇਰਾ ਏਕੁ ਨਾਮੁ ਤਾਰੇ ਸੰਸਾਰੁ ॥ਮੈ ਏਹਾ ਆਸ ਏਹੋ ਆਧਾਰੁ ॥੧॥ ਰਹਾਉ ॥ (Raag Asa M. 1, GGS. 24- ).
Your Name alone, Lord, saves the world. This is my hope; this is my support. ||1||Pause||

Guru Arjan Dev Ji re-affirms the use of 2nd Gurmat key of Naam (ਨਾਮ ਸੰਗਿ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ) in gaining Divine Sohjee’.

ਨਾਮ ਸੰਗਿ ਜਿਸ ਕਾ ਮਨੁ ਮਾਨਿਆ ॥ ਨਾਨਕ ਤਿਨਹਿ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਜਾਨਿਆ ॥੩॥ (Raag Gauri M. 5, 281-11).
One whose mind accepts the Company of the Naam, The Name of the Lord, O Nanak, knows the Immaculate Lord. ||3||

The two Gurmat Keys: 1. Paying attention to the teaching of Gurus and 2. Grasping the role and importance of Naam open up the Divine Treasures leading to becoming a ‘Jivan Mukt’:-.

ਨਾਨਕ ਨਾਮੁ ਨਿਰੰਜਨੁ ਗਾਈਐ ਪਾਈਐ ਸਰਬ ਨਿਧਾਨਾ ॥ (Raag Dhanaasree M. 5, GGS. 676-5).
O Nanak, singing the Naam, the Name of the Immaculate Lord, all treasures are obtained.

ਪਾਈਅਨਿ ਸਭਿ ਨਿਧਾਨ ਤੇਰੈ ਰੰਗਿ ਰਤਿਆ ॥ ਨ ਹੋਵੀ ਪਛੋਤਾਉ ਤੁਧ ਨੋ ਜਪਤਿਆ ॥ (Raag Goojree M. 5, GGS. 519-17).
All treasures are obtained, when we are attuned to Your Love. One does not have to suffer regret and repentance, when he meditates on You.

The role of two Gurmat Keys have no bearing with physical and biological sciences. These remain mystics belonging to Spiritual Science unless experienced to realise the Truths.

I request members to unfold the mysteries of these two keys with their personal experiences in the real perspectives of Gurbani.

Kirpal Singh
Wellington, New Zealand
kirpal2singh@yahoo.com